On Saturday I got to teach one of my favorite classes here at the Zoo. It’s called Point, Click, Zoo, and it a beginning-level photography class for adults.
One of the "bad" photos I use in the class. Everyone can tell what's wrong with this one!
This is a class we offer less frequently than most of the rest of our programs, and I always look forward to it. We start with a quick review of the basics of the manual settings on an SLR camera. (These are the bigger, professional-type cameras with the ability to change settings like shutter speed and aperture). Then we jump into a discussion of “bad” photos (taken by yours truly) that have something specific that can be fixed. (Of course, when I ask the class to tell me what’s wrong with the photos, at least one gets a whole list of things that I could have done better. I set myself up for critiques by using my own photos, so I know it’s coming.) After each picture we discuss how to deal with the specific issue, and then I get to show a “good” version of the same picture. This is a fun way to address the problems that often crop up in zoo photography, like mesh, glare from glass, or blur from action.
We follow these photography concepts with a discussion of tips that apply specifically to animals (expect movement, be patient, etc.). Then the class gets to practice with some live animals in the classroom. To finish, we venture out on grounds to practice some more at animal exhibits.
Photography is fun, albeit challenging, especially when animals are involved. The popularity of this class and our Photo Days at the Zoo proves it time and time again. If you are a fan of photography, the next opportunity at the Zoo is a Photo Day on December 18th. We’ve got our dates set for Point, Click, Zoo for next year, and registration will be open after the first of the year. I hope you get a chance to take some great shots on your next visit!
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